It's that time of the year when we get so worried about getting nice swimwear. It is important to know which body type you are before you begin shopping or even thinking about which swimsuit you should wear. Here are a few tips:

Hourglass body

Women with an hourglass figure have a big bust, large hips and a small waistline. Well defined waist and proportional breasts and hips. If you turn sideways you can visualize an S shape on your body's profile.

Tip: You're one lucky girl; with your body type you can pretty much wear any style you want. For those with larger chests, stay clear of skimpy triangle tops and rather find a bikini that offers your girls some much-needed support. Halter top bikinis work brilliantly in this instance!

Triangle (pear) body shape

Triangular body shapes tend to carry more weight on the lower half of the body, usually around the hips and thighs. The strapless bandeau bikini is the most flattering swimsuit for this shape! The triangle body shape also allows for you to be daring and play around with colours and patterns to visually balance out your body's proportions.

Tip: Accentuate your neckline and draw attention to your bust with busy patterns and cleverly disguise a larger lower half by wearing dark solid colours. Feel free to throw on a sexy pair of boy shorts for a little extra coverage!

Apple shape or inverted triangle body

If you have a large bust, small hips and are generally more top-heavy; then it's highly likely that you're an inverted triangle body shape or apple shape

Tip: Avoid wearing low cut tops, instead swimsuits with high neck or thick straps. Any swimsuit with support particularly at the chest will help.

Avoid strapless bikinis, as they do absolutely nothing to flatter your figure! Try a strap top or an underwire bikini instead. They offer great support and give you some lift while still providing just the right amount of cleavage.

If you enjoy mixing and matching, then do the opposite of the triangle shape and go for solid colours on top, and brighter coloured, busy patterns on the bottom. You're one of the fortunate few that can get away with wearing those teeny-tiny string bikini bottoms, so take advantage of this and show off those stunning hips.

Rectangular or round body

Rectangular body shapes are considered to have shoulders and hips of just about the same width and an undefined waistline. Well no need to stress! You too can get the curves you crave by adding some ruffles and ruching to your boxy frame. Say hello to girly details and patterns! Bikini bottoms that tie up at the sides create the illusion of curves, while other stylish extras like frills, beaded accents and belts add volume and draw attention to your hips and bust to create more of a balanced, shapely look.

Tip: Try One Piece swimsuits that have prints and patterns that distract the eyes away from the swimsuit. Tummy control swimsuits are also a good option to help flatten your gut. High cut legs will make your entire body appear longer.

Slim or Athletic

Slim women have small frame in general, with little or no curves. They have small bone structures, with lower than average body fat percentage.

Tip: Two piece swimsuits will show off your body and will also make you look curvier. Wear push up or add-a-cup-size bra sized swimsuits. Choose solid colors. And avoid designs that are too detailed, you want a smooth appearance to make your boobs and butt pop out.

Pregnant this summer?

Bikinis are a great choice in the early stages of your pregnancy, but you might consider switching to a one-piece as the trimesters roll on. Mummy-to-be stores have a good selection of one-pieces that you can open out and adjust as your tummy expands.

Plus sized/ tummy issues

There is a wide variety of affordable, stylish, plus-sized swimwear available these days. Woolies and Edgars have special tummy control panels that hide any unwanted lumps and bumps.

Sarongs
No matter what your body shape, sarongs are a fashionable way to cover up any insecurities and add a little more style to your look

The secret is to choose pieces that highlight your best features and then display them with supreme confidence.

Sources:

• Yourswimsuitguide
• MSN

Page Created: 08 November 2011